- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
- +254 722 510 431 | +254 733 556 555
- info@safarisandbeyond.com
- Gigiri Drive, Off UN Avenue, Kenya
A Remarkable Conservation Success Story in Central Africa
Akagera National Park, located in eastern Rwanda, stands as the largest protected wetland in Central Africa and a remarkable sanctuary for savannah wildlife. Once heavily degraded due to human settlement and poaching, the park has been revitalized through one of Africa’s most successful conservation partnerships between the Rwanda Development Board and African Parks.
Following years of restoration efforts, including wildlife reintroductions, anti-poaching strategies, and community engagement, Akagera is now a thriving Big Five safari destination—home to lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and Eastern black rhinos.
Conveniently located just a few hours’ drive from Kigali, Akagera offers the perfect add-on to Rwanda’s iconic gorilla trekking adventures in Volcanoes National Park.
Rolling hills, open plains, swamps, and lakes create a varied and breathtaking ecosystem.
Spot giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and the elusive leopard, along with the Big Five.
Home to over 490 bird species, including the iconic shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek.
Enjoy tranquil boat safaris on Lake Ihema, teeming with birdlife and large pods of hippos.
Strong focus on community involvement and education.
Reintroduced in 2017 after a 10-year absence with 18 individuals translocated from South Africa. In 2019, five more were added from European zoos to boost genetic diversity.
In 2015, lions were reintroduced after they were wiped out in the 1990s. The population doubled within a year thanks to successful breeding. Two more males from South Africa joined the pride in 2017.
A 120-km solar-powered, predator-proof fence was erected, drastically reducing human-wildlife conflict. A trained canine anti-poaching unit, deployed in 2015, plays a critical role in maintaining near-zero poaching levels.
Over 2,000 local schoolchildren, teachers, and community leaders visit the park annually as part of its environmental education program.
Between 2010 and 2019, tourism revenue rose by more than 1,150%, generating $2.5 million in 2019. Over 50,000 tourists visited that year, half of whom were Rwandan nationals. Today, Akagera is over 90% self-financing.
